tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60062928333888852562015-03-31T10:32:45.079+11:00Ocean, Sky and KhakiSupporting Our Australian Forces
(NOT ENDORSED BY DOD)Nilkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13872495050796257177noreply@blogger.comBlogger75125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006292833388885256.post-100540504503777162014-11-03T21:51:00.003+11:002014-11-03T22:04:17.124+11:002014 Christmas Mail - closing date 8 December 2014.From the Department of Defence website:<br /><blockquote><br />People who still wish to send general care parcels to deployed personnel this Christmas can do so through the Australian Forces Post Office box address below, which will be open from Monday 3 November to Monday 8 December 2014.<br /><blockquote><strong>An Australian Defence Member<br /> AFPO 60<br /> Australian Defence Force NSW 2890</strong></blockquote>In order to ensure an equitable distribution of parcels it is requested that all donations be gender-neutral, and be addressed to 'An Australian Defence Member', not to a specific job title, trade or unit member.<br /><br />Unfortunately Defence cannot accept care packages for Military Working Dogs or Explosive Detection Dogs due to strict care requirements relating to both their diet and their training programs.<br /><br />To ensure that all items are able to be delivered to our deployed forces, donors are asked to ensure that packages are of non-perishable goods. Previous experience has shown that items that are not robustly packaged can break open during transit, which can lead to infestation and spoilage. Defence cannot send perished or infested items overseas.<br /><br />All items must be submitted to an Australia Post outlet by 8 December 2014, and meet the requirements and restrictions detailed below.<br /><br />Please ensure that parcels do not contain alcohol, pornography or culturally offensive/inappropriate written material.<br /><br />Please note that general care parcels received by Defence after this date and those that exceed our ability to distribute will be donated to Australian charities such as the Salvation Army.<br /><br /></blockquote>Please visit the website for more information: <a href="http://www.defence.gov.au/events/christmas/support.asphttp://www.defence.gov.au/events/christmas/support.asp">http://www.defence.gov.au/events/christmas/support.asp</a><u><a href="http://www.defence.gov.au/events/christmas/support.asphttp://www.defence.gov.au/events/christmas/support.asp"><a href="http://www.defence.gov.au/events/christmas/support.asphttp://www.defence.gov.au/events/christmas/support.asp"><a href="http://www.defence.gov.au/events/christmas/support.asp"></a><span style="color: #0066cc;"><a href="http://www.defence.gov.au/events/christmas/support.asphttp://www.defence.gov.au/events/christmas/support.asp"><a href="http://www.defence.gov.au/events/christmas/support.asphttp://www.defence.gov.au/events/christmas/support.asp"></a><a href="http://www.defence.gov.au/events/christmas/support.asp"><a href="http://www.defence.gov.au/events/christmas/support.asphttp://www.defence.gov.au/events/christmas/support.asp"></a><a href="http://www.defence.gov.au/events/christmas/support.asphttp://www.defence.gov.au/events/christmas/support.asp"><a href="http://www.defence.gov.au/events/christmas/support.asphttp://www.defence.gov.au/events/christmas/support.asp">http://www.defence.gov.au/events/christmas/support.asp</a></a></a></a></span></a></a></u> <br /><br /><strong>What not to&nbsp;send:</strong><br /><br />No religious material. <br /><br />No porn, naked or immodestly clothed people. <br /><br />No chocolate, but I've sent Tim Tams. <br /><br />No toys&nbsp;or food&nbsp;for the dogs, it interferes with their training. <br /><br />No cigarettes.<br /><br />No alcohol. <br /><br />No liquids, they can break or leak and destroy others' Christmas mail.<br /><br />Nothing home baked, it will be thrown out. <br /><br />No clothing. <br /><br /><strong>Things to send:</strong> <br /><br />Lollies&nbsp;from Australia&nbsp;(minties, individually wrapped lollies, chupa chups, lolly pops) <br /><br />Coffee/tea/chocolate - I send sachets of coffee which you just add water to (Nescafe and Moccona make them and Aldi have their own brand). <br /><br />Other food items I've sent are: crisps, Mac &amp; Cheese, cuppa soups, tins of flavoured tuna (Aldi have some with crackers which are not expensive and taste pretty good), tins of chicken, smoked oysters, other tinned fish (snack size tins).<br /><br />Remember, it's going to be winter in the middle east in December, and it gets cold!! <br /><br />No clothing, but a sand scarf in an appropriate camouflage colour (think the desert colours - sand!), would probably be appreciated. Must be made of 100% cotton, usually interlock (t-shirt material), and camoflage colours must be kept in mind. Instructions on how to make a sand scarf can be found <a href="http://soldiersangels.org/uploads/sew/sandscarf-instr.pdf">here</a>. <strong>PLEASE NOTE: you do not need to email the person at the end of the instructions. Just put the sand scarf in your parcel!</strong><br /><br />Envelopes and small writing pads, biros, it's sometimes difficult to get writing materials. <br />A self addressed envelope will enable the recipient, if s/he has time, to write to you. Don't expect to receive a reply, feel good that you made someone happy at Christmas to get a parcel. Enclose a note from yourself if you can, like a penpal would, or a postcard from where you live.<br /><br />BX or B2 sized boxes (the Post Office should be able to help), and remember to keep the parcel under 2kg, or you will have to pay full postage to Sydney.<br /><br />Good luck, and thank you so much for thinking of our deployed military members.<br /><br />kaehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05819693069445947851noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006292833388885256.post-13254478896109798882014-10-19T09:28:00.003+11:002014-10-19T09:28:52.520+11:00Current Deployments OCT14We are currently waiting information regarding current deployments of Australia's armed forces personnel.<br /><br />Please standby.kaehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05819693069445947851noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006292833388885256.post-65489772367709381242014-07-22T15:03:00.001+10:002014-07-22T15:03:52.327+10:00McClymont's tribute to our troops.<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/zcN_84oK78Q?list=PLHtQ3cjNdnBnWOiKys8ZaHeN3JWCoCiEX" width="560"></iframe><br />kaehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05819693069445947851noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006292833388885256.post-70449393512956716452014-02-19T20:11:00.004+11:002014-02-19T20:11:34.620+11:00Packing up Taren Kowt - Complete<a href="http://www.army.gov.au/Our-work/News-and-media/FSU-8-job-well-done" target="_blank">Link</a>.kaehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05819693069445947851noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006292833388885256.post-27740869003583436622013-12-16T21:48:00.000+11:002013-12-16T21:48:52.084+11:00Home by Christmas - UruzganFrom Facebook<br /><br /><a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10153640225250105&amp;set=pb.260953565104.-2207520000.1387188703.&amp;type=3&amp;theater">https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10153640225250105&amp;set=pb.260953565104.-2207520000.1387188703.&amp;type=3&amp;theater</a>kaehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05819693069445947851noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006292833388885256.post-52062578045674712242013-10-20T20:56:00.003+11:002013-10-20T21:28:04.979+11:002013 Christmas Mail - open from 1 November to 9 December 2013Please remember, keep the parcels unisex (don't specifically make them for male or female), and don't send any treats or food for the dogs.<br /><br />The address is:<br /><br /><strong>An Australian Defence Member<br /> AFPO 60<br /> Australian Defence Force NSW 2890</strong><br /><br />More information <a href="http://www.minister.defence.gov.au/2013/10/18/assistant-minister-for-defence-make-a-lasting-contribution-to-support-defence-personnel-this-christmas/" target="_blank">here</a>.<br /><br />We hope this will be the last time for a while that we need to send packages to support our troops deployed overseas!<br /><br />(Although there will always be service personnel deployed overseas for various reasons, just not in the numbers we have in one place&nbsp;at the moment.)kaehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05819693069445947851noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006292833388885256.post-23817417247976706752013-04-03T19:56:00.003+11:002013-04-03T19:56:37.886+11:00Operation ASTUTE officially endedThe Australian Defence Force has formally concluded Operation ASTUTE in Timor-Leste, with all troops and equipment returned to Australia.<br /><br />Read more <a href="http://www.army.gov.au/Our-work/News-and-media/Australian-personnel-complete-Timor-Leste-operation" target="_blank">here</a>.kaehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05819693069445947851noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006292833388885256.post-65984066227052303502013-03-23T19:12:00.003+11:002013-03-24T18:57:13.365+11:002013 April 12 ANZAC Day Parcel Delivery DeadlineThe deadline for mail to Operation Slipper for ANZAC Day is 12 April, 2013.<br /><blockquote><span style="color: black;">For members of the public wishing to send parcels to deployed personnel for Anzac Day 2013, the Australian Forces Post Office box address below will be open until 12 April.</span><span style="color: black;"> </span><br /><br /><span style="color: black;">An Australian Defence Member</span><br /><span style="color: black;">AFPO 60</span><br /><span style="color: black;">Australian Defence Force&nbsp;</span><span style="color: black;">NSW 2890</span></blockquote><blockquote><span style="color: black;">In order to ensure an equitable distribution of parcels it is requested that all donations be gender-neutral, and be addressed to ‘An Australian Defence Member’, not to a specific job title, trade or unit member.</span><br /><span style="color: black;">Please note Defence can not accept care packages for Military Working Dogs or Explosive Detection Dogs due to strict care requirements relating to both their diet and their training programs.</span></blockquote><a href="http://news.defence.gov.au/2013/03/19/supporting-defence-personnel-on-anzac-day/" target="_blank">Link to DOD Press Release regarding ANZAC Day parcel deadline</a>.<br /><br />Thanks to Julieanne!kaehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05819693069445947851noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006292833388885256.post-45588076947179782352012-11-22T21:12:00.001+11:002012-11-22T21:12:19.816+11:00East Timor security deployment ended<blockquote>Australia officially ends the military security mission in East Timor today, with 400 troops set to return home<br /><div class="inline"><div class="block_related"><div class="link_sep mb10 mt10"><ul class="type_list"><!-- /hosts/home/htdocs/news/private/application/views/scripts/partial/common_link_item.phtml --><li><a class="video" href="http://www.sbs.com.au/news/video/2308085466/Australia-ends-East-Timor-military-mission" title="Australia ends East Timor military mission"><!-- Video --> Australia ends East Timor military mission </a></li><!-- /hosts/home/htdocs/news/private/application/views/scripts/partial/common_link_item.phtml --><li><a class="article" href="http://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/1713719/Australia-winds-up-East-Timor-security-mission" title="Australia winds up East Timor security mission"><!-- Article --> Australia winds up East Timor security mission </a></li></ul><div class="clear"></div></div></div><!-- Related -->Australia has quietly ended its military mission in East Timor, with the flag officially lowered on the 13-year deployment at a ceremony in Dili.<br /><br />The deployment officially ends on Thursday, although Australian personnel will remain through to April next year to return equipment to Australia, close bases and return property and buildings to the East Timor government.<br /><br />Australia will maintain an ongoing defence relationship by way of the Defence Cooperation Program. As well, Australian Federal Police (AFP) will continue to support local police.</div></blockquote><a href="http://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/1713719/Australia-winds-up-East-Timor-security-mission">Link</a>kaehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05819693069445947851noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006292833388885256.post-48102940453558589142012-10-30T16:54:00.002+11:002012-10-30T17:03:58.978+11:002012 Christmas Mailing deadline 7 December 2012Here are the details about the 2012 Christmas Mailing. Please note the information about sending food to the Detection Dogs.<br /><br />&nbsp;of Defence site, <a href="http://www.defence.gov.au/christmas/2012/postofficeservice.htm" target="_blank">link here</a>.<br /><br />Please note that there are special addresses for Christmas Mail so that they know it is Christmas Mail!<br /><br />Christmas Mail will be able to be sent from 22 October 2012 until 7 December 2012.<br /><br />Here is a&nbsp;cut and paste from the link:<br /><br /><span lang="EN" style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;">A number of community-based organisations and community members have expressed a wish to send care packages to Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel serving on overseas operations on Christmas Day. In response to this generosity, the ADF has established special mailing addresses. These will operate from 22 October 2012 until 7 December 2012.<o:p></o:p></span><br /><br /><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;">If you would like to support our service men and women, you are able to send parcels through Australia Post provided they meet the following guidelines:<o:p></o:p></span></div><ul><li> <span lang="EN" style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;">for postal security reasons, you will need to present a photographic identification; <o:p></o:p></span></li><li><span lang="EN" style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;">you can post parcels weighing up to a cubed weight of two kilograms in a ‘BX2’-sized Australia Post carton free of charge; <o:p></o:p></span></li><li><span lang="EN" style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;">if your parcel exceeds this limit, you will need to pay the full cost; <o:p></o:p></span></li><li><span lang="EN" style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;">articles must be packed in durable packaging, which is suitably secured, to withstand a large volume of weight and handling;<o:p></o:p></span></li><li><span lang="EN" style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;">postal addresses will be active from 22 October 2012 until 7 December 2012 and packages will be distributed throughout the operational areas; <o:p></o:p></span></li><li><span lang="EN" style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;">care package items most appreciated include uniquely Australian treats such as Tim Tams, lollies, magazines, books and DVDs. (Please note that any food stuffs should be non perishable in nature and sealed in commercial packaging.); and<o:p></o:p></span></li><li><span lang="EN" style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;">some items must not be sent including cigarettes, alcohol, perfumery products and pornography. <o:p></o:p></span></li></ul><br /><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;">Care Packages for Military Dogs and Explosive Detection Dogs</span></b></div><b></b><br /><b><div>&nbsp;</div></b><br /><div><span lang="EN" style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;">The Australian public have expressed their support not only for our ADF members, but also their four-legged partners.</span></div><div><span lang="EN" style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"></span>&nbsp;</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Unfortunately, care packages for explosive detection dogs and military dogs, containing items such as toys and food cannot be used by the dogs. The dogs cannot play with the toys, as their tennis ball toy is a key part of their training and the food can’t be used due to the dogs’ strict diets.</strong></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;">Defence would like to thank the public for their generous and kind support for our explosive detection dogs and military dogs and ask that you consider making a donation to your local animal welfare shelter on behalf our dogs.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><a href="http://www.defence.gov.au/christmas/2012/procedures.htm"><span style="color: #c55318;">For more information about Christmas Care Packages including postage and restrictions.</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div><span lang="EN" style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;">Please address your parcel to one of the following:<o:p></o:p></span><br /><br /><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;">Middle East</span></b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"></span><br /><div>An Australian Defence Member</div><div>Goodwill Mail</div><div>AFPO 60</div><div>Middle East Operations</div><div>Australian Defence Force NSW 2890 <o:p></o:p></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;">East Timor </span></b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"></span><br /><div>An Australian Defence Member</div><div>Goodwill Mail</div><div>AFPO 61</div><div>East Timor Operations</div><div>Australian Defence Force NSW 2890<o:p></o:p></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;">Solomon Islands</span></b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: &quot;Verdana&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"></span><br /><div>An Australian Defence Member</div><div>Goodwill Mail</div><div>AFPO 62 </div><div>Solomon Islands Operations</div><div>Australian Defence Force NSW 2890 <o:p></o:p></div><br />Helpful links and notes:<br /><br /><a href="http://oceanskykhaki.blogspot.com/2009/09/what-to-sendwhat-not-to-send.html" target="_blank">What to Send/What not to Send</a>, please note above in blue, no food to be sent to K9s. Food is anything that they can eat. No toys or balls for the dogs, as this interferes with their training. The Department of Defence has requested that donations be made to your local&nbsp;animal shelter in lieu of sending things for the dogs.<br />Department of Defence site, <a href="http://www.defence.gov.au/christmas/2012/postofficeservice.htm" target="_blank">link here</a>.</div></div></div>kaehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05819693069445947851noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006292833388885256.post-54686628041352104252012-08-09T00:00:00.000+10:002012-08-09T21:58:41.564+10:00Where are they?<a href="http://www.defence.gov.au/op/index.htm">Here is a link</a> to the Department of Defence site which informs the location of Australian military members who are deployed around the world.kaehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05819693069445947851noreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006292833388885256.post-90908469992658095452012-04-25T01:45:00.000+10:002012-04-25T13:02:45.130+10:00Lest We Forget<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/aV_MlKWxZPM" width="420"></iframe> <br /><br />I'll be thinking of you today. Stay safe.<br /><br /> Update: <iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/0BZ6aqgvdFI" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>kaehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05819693069445947851noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006292833388885256.post-13830765198769481042012-02-19T18:46:00.000+11:002012-02-19T18:46:53.157+11:00Feedback: A thank You from Afghanistan, Adopt a SoldierI received a Thank You email today from a person in Afghanistan. He said that they share out the goodies they get in their parcels, the recipient gets first dibs and they share things around.<br /><br />Winter has been especially cold this year in Afghanistan and though Christmas parcels from home arrived late they've been very much appreciated.<br /><br />As far as Adopt A Soldier, it's been suggested that anyone interested in adopting a soldier who may not have support from home, or who needs a boost from home, address a letter to The Chaplain and you may find The Chaplain will be able to help.kaehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05819693069445947851noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006292833388885256.post-77029869668447847242011-12-26T18:45:00.003+11:002011-12-26T18:50:51.618+11:00Wherever You Are - Military Wives Choir (UK)Official video.<br /><iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/0hR6O7VxKaQ" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br /><br />Live at The Albert Hall.<br /><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/1HrN5o02Le0" width="560"></iframe>kaehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05819693069445947851noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006292833388885256.post-56538582692877740022011-12-24T21:14:00.002+11:002012-10-07T18:09:10.570+11:00All the information you need... UPDATED OCTOBER 2012<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_WsC1Ee0QfGg/TO-GEOIYPpI/AAAAAAAABS4/ro7UxOwgQA0/s1600/20100422adf8208246_060.JPG"></a><strong>SUPPORT OUR SOLDIERS!</strong><br /><strong></strong><br />The parcel<br />• must be 2kg or under, and<br />• must be the size of a Bx2 Australia Post cardboard box or smaller,<br />• must not contain aerosols, batteries or other goods prohibited in the post,<br />• must be accompanied by a customs douane,<br />• must be posted by someone who has a photo identity (drivers licence).<br /><br />Australia Post carries the parcel free as long as it is under 2kg in weight and under the size of the Bx2 box from anywhere in Australia to the AFPO in Sydney.<br /><br />If you have several magazines you can send them bundled together for free, wrapped or packaged, clearly addressed, with douane etc, as long as the bundle is under 2kg.<br /><br />The Post Office is aware of the parcel arrangement with the Department of Defence.<br /><br /><strong>ADDRESSES:</strong><br /><blockquote><strong>PARCELS/LETTERS<br />Sending to Afghanistan </strong><br />An Australian Soldier<br />Op Slipper<br />AFPO 13<br />Australian Defence Force<br />SYDNEY NSW 2890<br /><br /><strong>for the dog handler and his helpmate</strong><br />An Australian EDD Handler<br />Op Slipper<br />AFPO 13<br />Australian Defence Force<br />SYDNEY NSW 2890<br /><br /><strong>Sending to East Timor </strong><br />An Australian Soldier<br />East Timor Operations<br />AFPO 61<br />Australian Defence Force<br />SYDNEY NSW 2890<br /><br /><strong>Sending to the Solomon Islands</strong> <br />An Australian Soldier<br />Solomon Island Operations<br />AFPO 62<br />Australian Defence Force<br />SYDNEY NSW 2890<br /><br /><strong>POSTCARDS ONLY </strong><br />Messages to the Troops<br />R1-5-A056<br />Russell Offices<br />Department of Defence<br /><br /><strong>FAX &amp; EMAIL<br />fax</strong>: (02) 6265 1099<br /><strong>fax from outside Aus</strong>: +61 2 6265 1099<br /><strong>email</strong>: messagestothetroops*at*defence.gov.au </blockquote><strong>WHAT TO SEND? WHAT NOT TO SEND!</strong><br /><br />Suggestions for care package contents for service troops in combat zones<br />Send a letter with an email address and/or a self addressed envelope, no stamp required, so the troops can reply.<br /><br />Ask about their living conditions and if they have fridge or microwave available to them then it is easier to know which food items to send, but do not worry if they do not use something troops have been giving it to the chaplain or another unit to pass out to others that might need it.<br /><br /><strong>NO HOMEMADE Food items unless you know the soldier as they get thrown away.<br />If sending liquid or food products, place them in a snap lock bag in case of leakage<br />Food </strong><br /><blockquote>dried fruit<br />drinking choc (individual sachets)<br />easy mac<br />individual small cereal boxes<br />individual ring pull tuna cans or sachets<br />lollies<br />long life milk (small packs)<br />microwave popcorn<br />microwave rice (reject shop $2)<br />oatmeal (individual sachets)<br />pepper (individual sachets)<br />powdered energy drinks<br />salt (individual sachets)<br />sauces &amp; condiments like mustard etc (individual sachets are good, ask Macca’s if you can have some and why...)<br />spices - to go with lamb/goat for example, rosemary, garlic, thyme, greek spices<br />sugar (individual sachets)<br />tabasco sauce<br />tea<br />trail mix<br />twisties (can also be used as packing in spaces in the box)<br />wasabi peas<br />NO PORK AT ALL TO BE SENT </blockquote><strong>Hygiene</strong><br /><blockquote>aftershave (they complain they smell)<br />air fresher (non aerosol sprays &amp; the cardboard card ones)<br />baby wipes (bulk &amp; travel size)<br />cotton buds<br />deodorant (non aerosol)<br />foot powder<br />hair conditioner<br />hair shampoo<br />inner soles<br />lip balm (chap sticks)<br />moisturiser<br />mouthwash<br />razors (NOT the real cheap ones like Bic! Personally I use Schick and I’d only send those, we don’t want them cutting/slashing themselves to shreds!)<br />shaving cream (non aerosol)<br />soap (normal &amp; travel size)<br />socks (black &amp; white)<br />talc<br />tissues (medium &amp; travel size)<br />toilet paper (one roll in a box)<br />toothbrushes (sometimes)<br />toothpaste<br />if female troops then add the following<br />female hygiene products<br />gel or hair spray (non aerosol)<br />hair ties<br />hairbrush (only send 1)</blockquote><strong>Misc &amp; entertainment</strong><br /><blockquote>blank cards (for troops to send home)<br />board games<br />board games (some marines have a wonderful photo of them playing twister)<br />book (try not to send romance novels)<br />cheap dvds please write on cover &amp; disc in permanent marker “Aussie troops property” to avoid theft<br />drawing paper<br />envelope<br />footballs/basketballs (and a pump)<br />magazines (nothing rude)<br />music CDs (Please write on cover &amp; disc in permanent marker “Aussie troops property” to avoid theft)<br />other sporting goods<br />pen/pencils<br />playing cards<br />poker chips<br />sport sections of newspapers<br />tennis balls (if you have tennis courts nearby you can buy second hand balls cheap – I got some from the University tennis courts $1 each, Slazenger and other brands)<br />writing Paper</blockquote><strong>NO Alcohol</strong> to be sent to any troops<br /><strong>DO NOT SEND CLOTHING</strong> except socks<br /><strong></strong><br /><strong>What not to send:</strong><br />Aside from and in addition to any items prohibited by Australia Post and the destination country, the following are prohibited to be sent to AFPO13 Operation Slipper:<br /><blockquote>aerosols<br />alcohol<br />cigarettes<br />clothing other than socks<br />pork<br />magazines with naked women<br />any religious materials</blockquote>UPDATE:<br />The mailing addresses in this post are still correct.kaehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05819693069445947851noreply@blogger.com45tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006292833388885256.post-31112662055678592372011-12-10T00:36:00.000+11:002011-12-10T00:36:52.174+11:00Pssst... Did you miss the Christmas mailout?I suspect you could use the every day mailout address for Australian soldiers/sailors/airmen and pop them in the mail on Monday and I'm sure they'd go with the rest to Aussie military members who are overseas.<br /><br />Good luck!kaehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05819693069445947851noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006292833388885256.post-86841589250035500022011-12-09T17:00:00.000+11:002011-12-09T21:39:14.885+11:002011 CHRISTMAS MAILING - COMMENCES 7 NOVEMBER - DEADLINE IS 9 DECEMBERReceived information from the Department of Defence regarding the Christmas Mail deadline.<br /><br />I understand that the Christmas Mail is held and distributed to the members on Christmas Day.<br /><br />Aside from the regular goodies to send (see here for "<a href="http://oceanskykhaki.blogspot.com/2010/11/all-information-you-need.html">What to Send</a>?",&nbsp;NOTE: don't use the addresses at this link for Christmas Mail!), we have had feedback that Ausralian lollies like Minties are really appreciated, snack foods like tinned flavoured fish (the small tins), biscuits, especially Tim Tams, are&nbsp;like gold. A book or magazine is also appreciated. Good coffee sachets and flavoured coffee sachets are appreciated, and packs of different types of tea (English Breakfast, Russian Caravan,&nbsp;Earl Grey, Oolong,&nbsp;Peppermint,&nbsp;etc), and flavoured tea (rose hip, raspberry,&nbsp;peach,&nbsp;etc), are liked by some, too. Sand Scarves are appreciated, too. Please see below for instructions if you're handy with a needle!<br /><br />Please note, the addresses below will only be active for the Christmas Mailout from November 7 to December 9, 2011.<br /><br />All the parcel regulations that apply to the&nbsp;other day mailings apply to the Christmas&nbsp;Mail.<br /><br />The format of the&nbsp;address is as follows:<br /><br />For the Middle East:<br /><blockquote class="tr_bq">An Australian Defence Force Member<br />Good Will Mail<br />Middle East <br />AFPO 60<br />Australian Defence Force NSW 2890.</blockquote>For Timor Leste:<br /><blockquote class="tr_bq">An Australian Defence Force Member<br />Good Will Mail<br />Timor Leste<br />AFPO 61<br />Australian Defence Force NSW 2890.</blockquote>For the Solomon Islands:<br /><blockquote class="tr_bq">An Australian Defence Force Member<br />Good Will Mail<br />Solomon Islands Operations<br />AFPO 62<br />Australian Defence Force NSW 2890.</blockquote>Please check Australia Post prohibited items at&nbsp; the Aus Post <a href="http://auspost.com.au/apps/international-post-guide.html">international post guide</a>.<br /><br />The following items are&nbsp; prohibited to all destinations due to safety and customs issues:<br />aerosols<br />cigarettes<br />clothing other than socks<br /><br />The following items are prohibited to Middle East destinations:<br />alcohol<br />pork<br />magazines with naked women<br />any religious materials&nbsp; <br /><br /><strong>Sand Scarves and how to make a sand&nbsp; scarf!</strong>We have heard a bit about sand scarves, these are appreciated by the soldiers as they protect from dust and dirt. If you are handy with your sewing machine you may be able to whip a couple of these up and send them in a parcel, they can be used for barter, too! Here's a link. Please note&nbsp; that with the sand scarves, the sandy taupe/fawn/tan/sage green (very pale grey-green)&nbsp;coloured ones would be the best for the Middle East and possibly greens for the Timor and Solomons. (These can be used like old sweat rags were.) Here is the pattern information from <a href="http://soldiersangels.org/uploads/SandScarvesHowTo.pdf">Soldier's Angels</a>. Please pay attention to the instructions on the fabric to use, it MUST be 100% cotton, do not use any synthetic blends.<br /><br />Thanks so much for visiting and thanks for your support. We're still around, just leading busy lives!<br /><br />If you have any questions, corrections, or I've missed anything please&nbsp;let me know!<br /><br />Update: All you need to know about what to send is here: <a href="http://oceanskykhaki.blogspot.com/2010/11/all-information-you-need.html" target="_blank">http://oceanskykhaki.blogspot.com/2010/11/all-information-you-need.html</a>, please note that the addresses at this link are not the Christmas addresses.<br /><br />UPDATE: Some info and images from Soldiers' Angels site which include sand scarves. <a href="http://soldiersangels.org/scarves.html" target="_blank">http://soldiersangels.org/scarves.html</a><br /><br />UPDATE II:<br />The boxes are now sold as Bx2 (not BM size).kaehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05819693069445947851noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006292833388885256.post-5644065434644456632011-12-07T14:50:00.000+11:002011-12-07T14:50:57.421+11:00Merry Christmas to one and all - from the British Navy!<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/SDZcGz4vmJc" width="560"></iframe><br /><br />If that doesn't raise a smile nothing will!<br /><br />Don't&nbsp; forget the Christmas Mail deadline is December 9,&nbsp;&nbsp;Friday this week!kaehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05819693069445947851noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006292833388885256.post-65795395479139901352011-04-15T20:07:00.000+10:002011-04-22T09:17:36.045+10:00ANZAC Day Mailing information - 14 March - 15 April 2011 NOW CLOSEDUPDATE:<br />This mailing is now finished&nbsp;although&nbsp;<a href="http://oceanskykhaki.blogspot.com/2010/11/all-information-you-need.html">you can still send parcels to the regular addresses</a>!<br />Keep up the good work.<br />Kae<br /><br />Sent to me from my local RSL Sub-Branch President:<br /><br /><strong></strong><br /><blockquote>Following requests from a number of community-based organisations and private citizens, the Australian Defence Force (ADF) has established special mailing addresses for members of the public to send Anzac Day care packages to service men and women serving on operations overseas.<br /><br />The ADF Joint Operations Command Director of General Support, Brigadier Dianne Gallasch, said she is moved by the desire among ordinary Australians to remember those currently serving overseas on the day the nation honours all who have made the ultimate sacrifice in present and past conflicts.<br /><br />“To be serving on operations on Anzac Day is an experience no sailor, soldier, airman or airwoman forgets,” Brigadier Gallasch said.<br /><br />“The significance of the challenges and sacrifices made by those who have gone before them is all the more poignant when they stop to commemorate Anzac Day on foreign soil. To know that complete strangers back home are thinking of them on this significant day and have sent a small care package is extremely heartening.”<br /><br />Members of the public are able to send parcels through Australia Post, so long as they do not exceed a 2kg cubic weight limit. Items weighing up to 2kg and posted in a ‘BM’ size Australia Post carton can be posted without cost to the sender. Parcels exceeding this limit will incur full postal charges which must be paid by the sender.<br /><br /><strong>The postal addresses are active from 14 March until 15 April 2011 and packages will be distributed throughout the appropriate operational areas. For postal security reasons, parcels must be posted in person with presentation of photograph identification and can be lodged at any Australia Post outlet, using the following addresses:<br /></strong><br /><blockquote>Middle East:<br /><blockquote>An Australian Soldier/Sailor/Airman/Airwoman<br />Anzac Day Mail<br />Middle East Operations<br />AFPO 60<br />Australian Defence Force NSW 2890</blockquote></blockquote><blockquote>East Timor<br /><blockquote>An Australian Soldier/Sailor/Airman/Airwoman<br />Anzac Day Mail<br />East Timor Operations<br />AFPO 61<br />Australian Defence Force NSW 2890</blockquote></blockquote><blockquote>Solomon Islands<br /><blockquote>An Australian Soldier/Sailor/Airman/Airwoman<br />Anzac Day Mail<br />Solomon Islands Operations<br />AFPO 62<br />Australian Defence Force NSW 2890</blockquote></blockquote>Brigadier Gallasch said deployed service men and women usually have access to essential personal items and those care package items most often appreciated include uniquely Australian treats such as lollies, as well as magazines, books and DVDs.<br /><br />“Defence subsidises care packages to deployed personnel for Anzac Day and Christmas each year. For Christmas last year, some 10 tonnes of care packages were sent to deployed personnel by members of the public, boosting morale and providing a welcome treat,” Brigadier Gallasch said.<br /><br />“On behalf of those members of the ADF who will receive care packages this Anzac Day, I would like to thank the public and community groups, particularly the RSL, for their thoughtfulness and kindness.”<br /><br />Information on sending Anzac Day messages and care packages is available on the Defence website at <a href="http://www.defence.gov.au/anzacday/mail/index.htm">http://www.defence.gov.au/anzacday/mail/index.htm</a>.<br /><br />An alternate option to individual members of the public sending care packages is to donate to the RSL Australian Forces Overseas Fund (AFOF). Twice a year the AFOF provides packages to Australian Defence Force, Australian Federal Police and AusAID personnel serving overseas. Further information regarding the AFOF is available on the RSL web site (http://www.rsl.org.au/).<br /><br />Media contact:<br />Defence Media Operations 02 6127 1999 or 0408 498 664</blockquote><br /><blockquote>Anzac Day care packages for ADF members serving overseas</blockquote>kaehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05819693069445947851noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006292833388885256.post-73396783644834962632011-01-14T18:32:00.001+11:002011-01-14T18:38:37.059+11:00Queensland Floods - A thank you to our militaryI just wanted to take this opportunity to thank our military members who have been tasked with assisting in the aftermath of the extensive flooding from Towooomba and the Lockyer Valley to Brisbane.<br /><br />As a resident in the Lockyer Valley I have heard the helicopters flying over daily since earlier this week.<br /><br />Understand your efforts and your bravery in plucking stranded people from their roofs and airlifting locals from floodbound towns are very much appreciated. We are grateful for your presence.<br /><br />Thank you!kaehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05819693069445947851noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006292833388885256.post-45434712981453655242010-12-15T11:19:00.001+11:002010-12-15T11:19:39.728+11:00NOTE: Christmas Mail Deadline is TODAY! 15/12/10kaehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05819693069445947851noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006292833388885256.post-75414169730184973602010-11-11T00:00:00.001+11:002010-11-11T00:23:36.108+11:00Armistice Day November 11, 1918When the world remembers the end of <a href="http://www.awm.gov.au/atwar/ww1.asp">WWI</a>.<br /><blockquote><p><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">In Flanders Fields </span></strong><br /><br />In Flanders Fields the poppies blow<br />Between the crosses row on row,<br />That mark our place; and in the sky<br />The larks, still bravely singing, fly<br />Scarce heard amid the guns below.<br /><br />We are the Dead. Short days ago<br />We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,<br />Loved and were loved, and now we lie<br />In Flanders fields.<br /><br />Take up our quarrel with the foe:<br />To you from failing hands we throw<br />The torch; be yours to hold it high.<br />If ye break faith with us who die<br />We shall not sleep, though poppies grow<br />In Flanders fields. </p><blockquote><em>Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, MD (1872-1918)<br />Canadian Army</em></blockquote><p><span style="font-size:130%;"><strong>For the Fallen<br /><br /></strong></span>With proud thanksgiving, a mother for her children,<br />England mourns for her dead across the sea.<br />Flesh of her flesh they were, spirit of her spirit,<br />Fallen in the cause of the free.<br /><br />Solemn the drums thrill: Death august and royal<br />Sings sorrow up into immortal spheres.<br />There is music in the midst of desolation<br />And a glory that shines upon our tears.<br /><br />They went with songs to the battle, they were young,<br />Straight of limb, true of eye, steady and aglow.<br />They were staunch to the end against odds uncounted,<br />They fell with their faces to the foe.<br /><br />They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old;<br />Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.<br />At the going down of the sun and in the morning<br />We will remember them.<br /><br />They mingle not with their laughing comrades again;<br />They sit no more at familiar tables at home;<br />They have no lot in our labour of the day-time;<br />They sleep beyond England's foam.<br /><br />But where our desires are and our hopes profound,<br />Felt as a well-spring that is hidden from sight,<br />To the innermost heart of their own land they are known<br />As the stars are known to the Night;<br /><br />As the stars that shall be bright when we are dust,<br />Moving in marches upon the heavenly plain,<br />As the stars that are starry in the time of our darkness,<br />To the end, to the end, they remain. </p><blockquote><em>Laurence Binyon (1869–1943)</em></blockquote></blockquote>They shall grow not old as we that are left grow old<br />Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn<br />At the going down of the sun, and in the morning<br />We will remember them.<br /><br />Lest We Forget.<br /><br />To read more about Australia's participation in war and peacekeeping, please visit the <a href="http://www.awm.gov.au/peacekeeping/">Australian War Memorial</a> site.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong><em>Thank you to everyone who carries the torch, and you who are showing support of our soldiers by sending them parcels.</em></strong> </span>kaehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05819693069445947851noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006292833388885256.post-82883812786574353572010-10-28T01:20:00.001+11:002010-10-28T01:22:30.177+11:00I notice the blog is quiet, are we still sending parcels?I had this enquiry from a new reader a couple of days ago:<br /><blockquote>Hello Kae, I was told about Ocean sky and Khaki buy a fellow breast cancer survivor and I have already sent one parcel off to “Afghanistan”. I have noticed there is not much activity on the O S &amp; K site at the moment. Is this activity of sending parcels still going on?<br /><br />I have another question if I may. Are the parcels opened before they get to the troops, or are they sent as I have wrapped them? I ask because one of my boxes didn’t close properly but the brown paper I wrapped it in held it all together.<br /><br />Thanks, yours Miss J</blockquote>I've only just found it today - I don't check that email often enough and will go for weeks with no emails arriving there! I hope there are no bloopers in this post, it's late and I must go to bed! This is my reply to Miss J:<br /><blockquote>Dear J<br /><br />Sorry about not replying sooner. I've just started a new job and as it is my first year I'm a bit tired when I get home and didn't realise it had been so long since I'd checked my gmail address!<br /><br />Yes, the parcel sending will go on as long as we have troops overseas. Recently I, along with the local RSL, sent 32 parcels overseas, I must post the information on that! We sent 15 to East Timor and the rest to Afghanistan. We have received a few personal thank you notes from East Timor and from Afghanistan. It's certainly a thrill when you receive an email from a soldier just to say thanks with some photos of the soldiers wherever they are.<br /><br />The local RSL President asked the local school children if they'd like to write to the Australian troops serving overseas, thinking that there would be maybe 30 or 40 letters. The children responded with 350 letters! We had to put many in the boxes for the soldiers. The children wrote their letters and they were put into self addressed envelopes. No postage required as service personnel overseas have their letters home delivered for free.<br /><br />Last month the local RSL collected boxes of goodies from a few local merchants and a truck from 6RAR came and picked them up to take them to Afghanistan. A bundle of letters went with those goods, too. There is also a collection point at the local IGA where people can deposit goodies so that the RSL can make parcels for the troops. Above the collection point is a poster which gives some items which can be donated.<br /><br />I asked the RSL president to give the teachers a message for the children to let them know not to expect a reply because sometimes the soldiers may be busy or just a bit shy about contacting a stranger and not knowing what to say.<br /><br />Next month the commander of 6RAR will be speaking at the local primary school to thank the children and show them some slides of the soldiers at work. I will try to attend, but it is during work hours.<br /><br />I don't know whether the parcels are opened before they get to the recipients. Sometimes they are shared around, someone might love these lollies and someone else might need the deodorant and another might need the soap, or the toothpaste or the toothbrush. They share, that's what soldiers do!<br /><br />I have six boxes made up here in front of me and when I can get my act together, and pick up the magazines donated to the RSL by the publisher, and reorganise the boxes to fit in the mags, I'll be sending them off, and probably another six boxes with them!<br /><br />I must go to bed! My new job is exhausting as I am learning. Nilk and Boy on a Bike both have busy jobs and I know that sometimes it's hard to put posts up... the main job of this site is to get the message out to people that they can support our troops overseas.<br /><br />Again, apologies for my tardy reply. Thank you for supporting our Australian soldiers. They do a good job promoting Australia by their action overseas assisting the people in the countries they serve in.<br /><br />Regards<br />Kae</blockquote>kaehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05819693069445947851noreply@blogger.com33tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006292833388885256.post-30287839225266397772010-08-16T09:33:00.005+10:002010-08-16T14:27:36.308+10:00Why?To find out more about what Aussies are doing in places like Afghanistan, please watch the 4 Corners program "A Careful War".<br /><br />This program highlights the way that our service personnel assist in Afghanistan, and also the dangers they face.<br /><br />A Careful War - <a href="http://www.abc.net.au/4corners/content/2010/s2943068.htm">Part 1</a><br /><br />A Careful War - <a href="http://www.abc.net.au/4corners/content/2010/s2948542.htm">Part 2</a><br /><br />It's time for people to be enlightened that the work in Afghanistan and other fields in which Australian Defence Forces are working.<br /><br />I know service personnel who have been deployed to places such as Afghanistan and Sudan and I know that they strongly believe that their job is to make the lives of the people in these places better. This is what they train for and this is what they go there to facilitate. The weapons side of things is really a secondary thing, for their protection and the protection of the locals.<br /><br />Here is a link to the <a href="http://www.abc.net.au/4corners/special_eds/20100705/afghanistan/">extended report </a>from Chris Masters in Afghanistan.<br /><br />Update:<br />In the extended report are several links to individual interviews and to Chris Master's diary and a PDF of <a href="http://www.abc.net.au/4corners/special_eds/20100705/afghanistan/docs/background.pdf">background information on Afghanistan</a>.kaehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05819693069445947851noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006292833388885256.post-10340312523705906312010-07-16T19:07:00.003+10:002010-07-16T19:13:45.802+10:00K is for Keep It UpAs you may have noticed, we haven't posted much for a while. I guess we ran out of things to say - everything you need to know about sending parcels has been covered already.<div><br /></div><div>Just so you know, we haven't given up on the parcel posting thing. I generally try to get at least one in the mail every month, and if I am really organised, I'll send four in one hit. My personal aim is to send 10-20 per year, and to keep that up as long as we have troops deployed somewhere. So far, I'm not doing too badly.</div><div><br /></div><div>I recently watched the two Four Corners episodes that covered Afghanistan. The <a href="http://www.abc.net.au/4corners/content/2010/s2948542.htm">second episode</a> had a short segment showing the troops receiving parcels from home. It's amazing how much you can come to appreciate something like lemon teabags when you are a long way from the nearest supermarket.</div>Boy on a bikenoreply@blogger.com18